Best Probiotics for Dogs: Keep Your Dog’s Digestive Tract on Track

A dog owner’s top concern is keeping their dog healthy. However, a healthy dog isn’t just a dog that doesn’t get sick. Owners who want to keep their dog healthy take preventive measures. Fortunately, there are supplements and probiotics made for dogs, which helps keep dogs as healthy as possible.

Probiotics can improve digestive and intestinal health, which can have a positive effect on your dog’s immune system. However, with so many probiotics available for purchase, we know choosing the right one is difficult. That’s why we have done some research for you.

We’ll tell you what to consider when purchasing a probiotic and even provide some recommendations. The probiotics you’ll read about are all slightly different, but they are reliable products with an overall, good reputation for improving a dog’s digestive health.

Things To Consider Before Buying

Finding the right probiotic for your dog can be overwhelming. Various probiotics contain different ingredients and have varying health benefits. You want the absolute best for you dog to ensure he stays healthy for many, many years. To find a suitable probiotic, you have to consider several factors:

Form

How you give your dog a probiotic is worth considering. If you have a dog who won’t eat anything in pill form then purchasing a probiotic that is only available in capsules is not a clever idea. If you need to disguise the probiotic then you want something that can be mixed in with dog food.

Dog probiotics usually come in two forms: powder and capsules. Powder probiotics tend to be odorless and flavorless. Therefore, they’re ideal for picky eaters. Capsules usually need to be mixed in with dog food. However, some capsules can be crushed or opened and sprinkled over food. Sometimes, you can find probiotics that are chewable. Although, they aren’t always popular with dogs.

Allergy Friendly

Finding a probiotic that is allergy friendly may not be a concern if your dog isn’t allergic to anything. However, if your dog has food allergies then choosing a probiotic with wheat or dairy products in it could cause severe reactions.

Most probiotics will advertise ingredients they don’t include in their formula. Therefore, most of the time you won’t have to look super close at the ingredient list to determine if it is allergy friendly. However, it can be difficult for a probiotic to accommodate every food allergy.

Therefore, look for statements that say dairy-free, wheat-free, and gluten-free. However, if your dog has abnormal allergies, such as grass allergies, take a glance at the ingredient list. Some probiotics contain natural ingredients, such as grass, your dog may not react well to.

Number of Servings

You may want the best for your dog, but you also want to get the most out of your money. Unfortunately, there’s no formula to tell you the appropriately sized package to purchase. It really depends on what you are willing to spend and how many servings you give your dog each day.

Powder probiotics seem to be the better deal. They usually have a larger number of servings per container, so they will last for months. The servings are easier to adjust as well, which could end up saving you money. However, capsules sold in bulk are usually reasonably priced. However, keep an eye out for scams.

Probiotic Benefits

Pretty much all probiotics are designed to improve digestive and intestinal health. However, improving intestinal health can mean a variety of things. Some probiotics will do more to improve your dog’s health than others, and you need to decide exactly what you expect the product to accomplish.

Basic probiotics should promote intestinal health by regulating stool and decreasing episodes of diarrhea or constipation. Some probiotics include microorganisms that also prevent vomiting, limit gas, promote healthier and shiner skin, and boost the immune system. However, sometimes probiotics that go above and beyond contain too many ingredients for dog who are sensitive to new medications.

Money-Back Guarantee

Probiotics can be expensive. So, when you spend a lot of money for a product that doesn’t produce results it’s easy to get upset. Luckily, some probiotics come with money-back guarantees.

Typically, guarantees are only valid for 60 days. Although, some manufacturers offer 90-day guarantees. However, don’t read too much into guarantees. They can be great if the product doesn’t work, but you shouldn’t pass on a product just because it doesn’t have a guarantee.

Best Products On Today’s Market

The best way to find reliable products is to read customer reviews. They are often more informative than a product’s description and will include the pros and cons to using the product. A good probiotic improves intestinal health, isn’t outrageously expensive, and tries to accommodate some allergy concerns. Here are some dog probiotics you should consider:

Description: Dogs who have irregular stool will benefit from Miracle Dog Probiotics. Miracle Probiotics contains 6 strains of friendly bacteria that regulates stool firmness and improves digestive tract health. Dogs suffering from diarrhea, loose stool, or constipation should see an improvement when taking this product regularly.

Additionally, Miracle Probiotics strengthens the immune system and decreases yeast overgrowth. This product is great for dogs with allergies, as it is gluten, dairy, soy, and GMO free. Your dog’s coat and skin should become shinier and healthier as well.

The number of serving in each Miracle Probiotics is slightly ambiguous, as it depends on how much you are giving to your dog. Generally, dogs under 50 pounds should be given one scoop and dogs over 50 pounds should be given two scoops. During the beginning, give your dog smaller dosages and observe how your dog’s body reacts.

Miracle Probiotics comes with a money-back guarantee. However, it is only valid for 60 days after purchase. This product can be stored for up to a year, but it is recommended to use within 10 months. There is a possibility that the container will arrive unsealed; although, this is apparently normal and does not mean the product is unsafe.

Purina Fortiflora Canine Nutritional Supplement Box

Price: approximately $27 to $168

Number of Servings: 30 to 180

Form: Powder

Specific Features: Contains antioxidants, vitamin A, E, and C

Best Use: Preventing or shortening diarrhea episodes

Description: The Purina Fortiflora Canine Nutritional Supplement Box is an easy way to regulate a dog’s digestive health. This supplement contains natural microorganisms already found in your dog’s digestive tract. These microorganisms help prevent diarrhea or shorten diarrhea episodes when they happen.

While, Purina Supplement Box promotes a healthy intestinal tract and a healthy immune system, its main purpose is to regulate bowel moments. It provides relief to dogs who suffer from diarrhea due to stress or antibiotic therapy.

Each box of Purina Supplement contains individual packets that should be sprinkled over your dog’s food. There are 30-count, 90-count, and 180-count boxes available for purchase. There is also a 2-pack, 4-pack, 5-pack, and 10-pack of 30-count boxes available. However, buying in bulk seems to be significantly more expensive than buying individual 30-count boxes.

Fortiflora is safe for pregnant dogs and dogs with allergies. It also is a good option for picky eaters, as it is odorless and flavorless. However, it is recommended to seek a veterinarian’s opinion before giving this product to your dog.

Pros:

Contains natural microogranisms

Regulates stool

Safe for pregnant dogs

Cons:

Expensive compared to other probiotics

Related: Consider purchasing OM Overweight Management Dry Dog Food. If your dog is overweight, having a healthy digestive system only goes so far. Your dog will feel a lot better if all his health concerns are addressed.

Vetri-Science Mega Probiotic Dog Supplement

Description: The Vetri-Science Mega Probiotic Dog Supplement supports three essential systems: the intestinal system, the neurological system, and the immune system. There are 8 different strains of friendly bacteria included in Vetri’s formula and each capsule contains 5 billion microorganisms. It may sound like a lot, but each microorganism supports your dog’s health.

While Vetri Mega Probiotic provides many health benefits, it is only offered in capsule form. Therefore, it’s trickier than powder probiotics to sneak into a dog’s food. The capsules can be broken in half for smaller dogs. Yo may be able to crush the capsules up and sprinkle it over your dog’s food. Vetri has no odor.

Unfortunately, Vetri is not for overly sensitive dogs. Even though it supposedly decreases food intolerance, some dogs experience side effects after taking this product. Some dogs have been known to vomit almost immediately after taking Vetri. Some dogs even experience diarrhea.

Pros:

Supports immune, neuro, and intestine health

Non-dairy formula

Contains friendly bacteria

Cons:

Can cause vomiting and diarrhea

Only available in capsules

Related: Consider purchasing Canine Plus Multivitamins in addition to Vetri. These chewable capsules are safe for dogs of all sizes and ages to eat. Canine Plus Multivitamins will support your dog’s overall health by balancing amino acids, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, and antioxidants.

NWC Naturals Total-Biotics Powder

Price: approximately $42

Number of Servings: 365

Form: Powder

Specific Features: 14 strains of probiotics, vegetarian approved

Best Use: Supporting intestinal health

Description:NWC Naturals Total-Biotics Powders boasts about its use of the probiotic strains Acidophilus and MGG chelate. Acidophilus is considered one of the best probiotic strains, as it hangs onto intestines with causing damage. MGG chelate improves bacteria’s ability to settle into the digestive tract. It has even been known to repair damaged intestines.

While NWC Naturals advertises better intestinal health, it has been used to treat other infections and health concerns. It can help decrease yeast infections and itching on various body parts. It can also regulate gas.

The recommended serving size is two scoops for two cups of dog food. If you dog does not eat two cups of dog food, adjust accordingly. It is also recommended to start off slow. Gradually increase to a full serving to avoid adverse reactions.

While each container contains 365 scoops, how long each container last depends on how many scoops you give your dog each day. However, one container should last at least 182 days, even if you are giving your dog two scoops a day.

Unfortunately, not all dogs will react well to this product, which is why you should only give your dog a small amount in the beginning. Some dogs have been known to get violently ill after taking NWC Naturals. However, dogs who get ill may be allergic to one of the strains used in this probiotic.

Pros:

Unique probiotic formula

Improves intestinal health

Reasonably priced

Cons:

Has made some dogs sick

Related: Often purchased with this product is NWC Naturals Total-Zymes Digestive Powder. This product is great for dogs with allergies, as it is gluten, soy, diary, wheat, and preservative free. It helps support digestion, itching, and stiff joints.

Nutramax Proviable Health Supplement

Price: approximately $18 to $36

Number of Servings: 30 or 80

Form: Capsule

Specific Features: contains seven bacteria strains

Best Use: improving intestinal and immune health

Description: Each capsule of Nutramax Proviable Health Supplement contains 5 billion microorganisms designed to improve both intestinal and immune health. There are seven strains of friendly bacteria that benefit your dog in various ways.

Nutramax is designed to help balance microflora that improves your dog’s ability to fight off infections, digest and absorb nutrients, and produce vitamins and fatty acids. While this probiotic focuses on intestinal health, the results improve your dog’s overall health.

Individuals can purchase a 30-count or 80-count box. There are also 2-pack, 3-pack, and 4-pack deals for each count as well. However, the package deals are significantly steep in price and you might be better off buying individual boxes.

Furthermore, Nutramax is only offered in capsule form. They are sprinkle capsules, so you should be able to mix it in with your dog’s food. However, consult with a veterinarian before administrating this probiotic in any way other than recommended.

While Nutramax has a good reputation, there are some problems that have arisen with it in the past. Sometimes it can take a while to arrive after ordering it and occasionally the capsules are dried out and unfit for use.

Pros:

Improves overall health

Contains seven bacteria strains

Encourages health bacteria growth

Cons:

Occasionally, boxes contain defective capsules

Related: Along with supporting intestinal health, you can also support urinary tract health with Nutramax Cranadian. This supplement prevents harmful bacteria from sticking in the urinary tract, allowing it to be flushed out when your dog urinates.

Along with enzymes, MiracleZyme contains 5 probiotics that regulates stool and improves immune-system health. Dogs with allergies should be able to take this product, as it does not contain gluten, GMO, or byproducts. Although, if your dog has multiple allergies or is sensitive to new medication talk to your veterinarian first.

Unlike many probiotic products, MiracleZyme is a chewable tablet. While it can’t be sprinkled over food you don’t have to force feed it to your dog. Most dogs don’t mind the tablet’s flavor, but hiding the tablet in the middle of dog food usually works for ticking picky eaters.

While this product has a great reputation, don’t be alarmed if you don’t see any changes in your dog. Not all dogs respond to MiracleZyme and some dogs take longer than normal to experience positive results. Some dogs will see an improvement in their digestion without seeing an improvement in stool regulation.

Pros:

Aids in digestion

Allergy friendly

Contains 12 enzymes and 5 probiotics

Cons:

Chewable tablets

Not all dogs see an improvement

Related: Some individuals give their dogs Probiotic Miracle as well. While sensitive dogs may not be able to take both supplements at the same time, many dogs see an improvement in their overall health when taking both. Probiotic Miracle is also allergy friendly and helps prevent diarrhea, constipation, itching, and bad breath.

Furthermore, PetVitalityPro gives the immune system a boost. It helps your dog fight against infection and helps his body absorb nutrients easier. This can decrease allergies, heal skin conditions, and reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.

Unfortunately, this probiotic is only available as a chewable tablet. The tablets are duck-flavored; although, sometimes other flavors are available as well. Even though you can mix the tablet in with your dog’s food, picky dogs tend to find the tablets and spit them out.

Generally, PetVitalityPro is an excellent product for dogs with allergies. Not only are the ingredients allergy-friendly but it has been known to clear up conditions caused by allergies. However, it has been known to cause reactions in dogs with grass-type allergies. Furthermore, the tablets are sometimes assorted sizes so dogs don’t always receive a consistent amount each day.

Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs

Description: The Pet Ultimates Probiotics for Dogs has made it their goal to create a healthy and effective probiotic product. Its customized formula does not contain sugar, soy, or wheat. Furthermore, there are no fillers or artificial flavors.

Each ¼ teaspoon contains 2 billion microorganisms. These microorganisms promote regular digestion, clear up skin conditions, and increase energy levels. They prevent inflammation in the colon and decreases the risk of yeast infection. Some other benefits include: reduced shedding, gas, and allergies.

Furthermore, Pet Ultimates Probiotics comes with a 90-day, money-back guarantee. If your dog’s health doesn’t improve, contact the customer service department to inquire about a refund. Each container should contain approximately 182 servings.

One serving size is one scoop. Dogs under 50 pounds should only have one scoop sprinkled over their food. Dogs over 50 pounds can be served two scoops. One container may only last about 91 days. While most dogs don’t notice when it’s sprinkled over their food, sometimes this probiotic turns white when mixed with other foods or liquids.

Pros:

Wheat, sugar, and soy-free

Regulates digestion and energy levels

Some dogs see improvement in skin conditions and other gastrointestinal problems

Cons:

Powder is sometimes noticeable

Related: If you are looking for a supplement that supports joint and heart health, then you should consider purchasing Zesty Paws Pure Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil. It’s all-natural formula contains fatty acids essential for healthy joints and a healthy heart.

Wrap Up

If you didn’t know before, you know now that having a healthy digestive tract can improve a dog’s overall health. It prevents diarrhea, constipation, gas, vomiting, and other side effects that are a result of unbalanced intestines.

When reading reviews about various probiotics it’s easy to see which ones focus on improving a dog’s digestive tract and which ones are scamming loving owners out of their money. While reviews can be helpful, the best way to find the perfect probiotic is by trying them out yourself.

If the first probiotic you try doesn’t improve your dog’s health, don’t give up. Dogs react differently to different strands of bacteria. Therefore, if one probiotic doesn’t help another one might.

What has your experience taught you about giving dogs probiotics? Do you have any warnings or suggestions about specific brands? Do you think there’s a probiotic that should be on this list? Post your comment down below.

Anna Smith resides in beautiful Santa Monica, CA, where she works as a Pet Nutrition Expert in a leading retail pet store. She is responsible for nutritional strategies for different breeds and development of new products on the market in compliance with Association of American Feed Control Officials. Anna's passions are education about proven methods and best practices in the industry and her dog Max, who is always well-fed.

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